Posted by Ronna Moore on 22nd Oct 2018
Day of the Dead, or Dia de los Muertos, is a custom of many Spanish-speaking countries, particularly Mexico. The celebration combines both rituals of indigenous Aztecs with Catholicism. The annual two-day celebration includes parties and festivals to honor the dead. On November 1st and 2nd, it is believed their departed loved ones come back and visit those still living. In preparation of their arrival, many prepare altars, or ofrendas, to honor them and welcome them home. Loved ones decorate altars with candles, photographs, sugar skulls, food, drinks, and other offerings that represent a deceased loved one's favorite things.
Elegantly dressed skeletons, La Calavera Catrina and people made up as skeletons are common sites during the festivals. People carry Marigolds as they are believed to attract spirits with their scent and bright colors.
La Calavera Catrina
Catrinas were originally inspired by the famous “La Calavera Catrina” etching by Jose Guadalupe Posada, which depicted a very well dressed woman at the turn of the century as a skeleton. She was created as a satirical image to mock the indigenous Mexicans who imitated European style and to say that death escapes no one, not even the wealthy.
The Catrina's image was cemented into her place in popular culture by a Diego Rivera mural.“Sueño de Una Tarde Dominical en la Alameda.” or Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Central Park in English. La Calavera Catrina appears alongside many of Mexico's most notable figures. (Can you spot celebrated Mexican artist Frida Kahlo in the image above?)
La Catrina has become an iconic symbol of Day of the Dead and is not meant to be macabre, but a spiritual symbol of humanity, because we all end up as skeletons in the end. It says don't be afraid, but love and honor the bones that represent your ancestors.
Fairies and La Catrina have merged into colorful and festive Day of the Dead Fairies!
Butterflies, particularly Monarchs, are a common theme in Day of the Dead festivities and catrina dolls. Monarchs that migrate to Mexico each fall are considered a symbol of loved ones returning spirits.
Bride and Groom catrinas are also a common site at Dia De los Muertos. The Day of the Dead bride and groom fairies are crafted of resin and hand-painted in intricate detail.
